Philadelphia, PA - The hamburger is an undisputed icon of American cuisine, with an estimated 38 billion consumed by Americans each year. But in an age of gourmet toppings and plant-based alternatives, what do people consider the truly classic American hamburger? According to a survey conducted by the Caravan Opinion Research Corporation for the restaurant chain Johnny Rockets, the answer is clear: Americans still prefer the simple perfection of a classic cheeseburger.
The Verdict: The Cheeseburger Reigns Supreme
Despite the rise of elaborate gourmet burgers, the survey revealed that a resounding 74 percent of Americans believe the cheeseburger best embodies the classic American hamburger. The preference for tradition doesn't stop there: 86 percent of Americans also prefer a classic beef hamburger over turkey or veggie patties.
The Toppings Debate: Simplicity is Key
When it comes to toppings, the survey found that most people agree simplicity is best. The classic combination of fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and sliced onion remains the standard. Interestingly, when it comes to onions, 40 percent of respondents chose raw onions over grilled, highlighting a preference for that crisp, sharp bite.
The Secret to the Perfect Melt
So, what's the secret to crafting that mouthwatering balance of beef and cheese at home? According to Mike Shumsky, the chairman and CEO of Johnny Rockets, it's all in the timing. "A true cheeseburger connoisseur will wait until the meat is fully cooked, then add a slice of cheese and cover for 30 seconds so that the cheese melts perfectly," he says. This method ensures the burger is cooked to the proper temperature without overcooking the cheese, resulting in a beautiful, gooey melt.
How to Make a Classic Cheeseburger at Home
Inspired by the Johnny Rockets classic, "The Rocket Single," here is a simple recipe for a perfect, all-American cheeseburger.
Yields: 1 burger Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 hamburger bun
- 1/3 lb. fresh ground beef (80/20 chuck is a great choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 slice of sharp cheddar or American cheese
- 1 tablespoon of "Special Sauce" (see below)
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- 1 ripe tomato slice
- A few rings of sliced raw onion
For the Special Sauce:
- Mix Thousand Island dressing, a small squirt of Dijon mustard, and a dash of hot sauce to your preferred taste.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Patty: Gently form the ground beef into a patty that is slightly larger than your bun (it will shrink during cooking). Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Grill the Burger: Grill the hamburger patty to your preference. For food safety, the USDA recommends cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Melt the Cheese: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of the patty. Cover the grill for about 30 seconds to allow the cheese to melt perfectly over the meat.
- Assemble: Lightly toast your hamburger bun, if desired. Spread the special sauce on the top and bottom bun. Place the cheese-covered patty on the bottom bun, then layer on the tomato slice, lettuce leaves, and sliced onion. Place the top bun on, and enjoy immediately.
While gourmet trends will come and go, the classic American cheeseburger remains an enduring favorite. Its simple combination of a juicy beef patty, perfectly melted cheese, and fresh, crisp toppings is a timeless formula for deliciousness.
